Extension initiative supports urban ag programs, career paths for youth
URBANA, Ill. – Advanced food science technologies, combined with a growing focus on food security and sustainable farming, are expanding Illinois agriculture potential from rural to rooftop. Urban agriculture contributes to local food security, small business development, youth development, and...
October Master Gardener Column
By Jan Phipps
I saw a lot of pictures of Shasta daisies over the summer on both social media and professional gardening sites. They are the classic summer flower. Leucanthemem x superbum, the Latin name, was developed by Luther Burbank and named for Mount Shasta because its...
Make hitting the hay a priority during harvest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - For many farmers, fall requires long days in the field and little rest. The pressure to harvest as much as possible combined with fatigue and looming deadlines can result increase the risk of potential hazards.
Safety and health of workers, including making time for...
Webinar examines dollar store impact on rural Illinois communities
URBANA, Ill. – Dollar stores in rural areas offer convenience and competitively-priced shopping options for rural residents, but their business models do not always lead to long-term community economic health.
...
Mobile app supports youth development on the go
Teachable moments come in all shapes and sizes. Now, when those unexpected moments occur, parents and educators can rely on the new Terrific Teachable Moments mobile app to help them take advantage in convenient and meaningful ways....
A Miniature Farm with Big Goals
It may have started with wanting to live a healthier lifestyle, but in less than two years, Big Miniature Farms in rural Mt. Carroll, Ill., has grown from a small home garden into a USDA Specialty Grower and Farm. Big Miniature Farms made their debut at the Mt. Carroll Farmers Market in 2019...
Top speakers compete in virtual 4-H state contest
URBANA, Ill. – This summer was different than past summers for Jordi Oliver. The 18-year-old Massac County 4-H member would typically fill her summer days with feeding, fitting, and showing cattle. Show mornings would start with hot coffee and walks from the tie-outs. While fewer days started by...
In a summer of change, 4-H members focus on what matters most
URBANA, Ill. – In May, Jenna Wheeler and her family had a big decision to make. With a barn full of show pigs and goats bound for the summer showring, and a cascade of cancellations due to coronavirus pandemic, what should the family do?
Raising livestock is expensive, but some of those...
National 4-H Week perfect time to register as alum
URBANA, Ill. – Each year, 4-H members across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week, joining 6 million other 4-H members of the country’s premiere youth development program. This year, the celebration runs Oct. 4 to 10.
University of Illinois...
